Latvia welcomes President Bush's vision of Europe whole and free expressed during his speech in Warsaw

02.12.2014. 19:09

Latvia welcomes President Bush's vision of Europe whole and free expressed during his speech in Warsaw

Statement by President of the Republic of Latvia Dr Vaira Vike-Freiberga

15.06.2001.

Latvia applauds the bold vision outlined by President Bush during his historic speech in Warsaw of a Europe whole and free, and one based upon shared values. President Bush's vision is our vision.

Latvia recognises the responsibilities of being a part of this new Europe. Over the last ten years, we have accomplished important democratic reforms, including modernisation of our defences, and have contributed to the NATO-led operations in the Balkans. We uphold the same principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law that are shared by the transatlantic Allies. NATO embodies the defence of these principles and we are anxious to contribute to strengthening the Alliance as it prepares for new threats and challenges.

Latvia welcomes President Bush's vision that no European democracy will be excluded from the NATO enlargement process due to its geography or history. This is a just, principled, and inclusive approach to enlargement and a moral imperative. We commend this approach and are confident that our progress will be recognised at the Prague Summit next year.

The 2002 NATO summit in Prague will present an historic opportunity to bring about a fully unified Europe that is free of conflict and committed to working together in the transatlantic community of like-minded nations. It is with the strong leadership of the United States and NATO Allies in Europe that we will all see to the success of this vision.

President's Press Service